Women’s history is hidden history. Official histories, records and publications usually chart men’s lives. Archaeology is one of the ways we can uncover the female perspective by finding out what women in the past owned, did with their bodies, created, and consumed.

The UC Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities and Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga are hosting an amazing line-up of six female archaeologists, who will talk and answer questions on how archaeology can reveal women’s hidden histories. Join us to hear about women in the Mithraic cult, Iberian pre-history, and colonial Christchurch.

because this year is the 125th anniversary of New Zealand women winning the vote, the conversation will also focus on the personal and professional decisions of our female archaeologists. In the first half, oral historian Rosemary Baird will engage three of our archaeologists in a frank discussion about the why and how of their careers. The second half features a "show and tell" artefact session of post-earthquake artefacts relating to Canterbury women, followed by an illustrated talk on the international history of female archaeologists.

Part of the nationwide NZAA Archaeology Week programme, this free event has a limit of 60 seats, so be sure to book quickly. Guests will also invited to explore the Teece Museum’s new exhibition Beyond the Grave: Death in ancient times (opening 5 May) during the intermission.

"The New Zealand Archaeological Association is working to increase public awareness and highlight the importance of protecting our archaeological heritage by promoting the work of New Zealand archaeologists both at home and abroad.

New Zealand Archaeology Week 2018 will comprise of a variety of events around New Zealand. These events are being hosted by consultant archaeologists, museums, heritage organisations and iwi and will include public talks, historic walks, and displays in regions from the Far North to the Deep South.

In addition there are some events that while not during New Zealand Archaeology Week 2018 itself the NZAA believe it is important to include and support events which are of a similar nature and which include archaeological aspects. ..."